Custom fiberglass access panel.

[blackmagicthe1st]

Hi folks,

I’m really hoping someone can help here.

Unfortunately with the recent windy weather I’ve lost an access panel for our radar arch. I’m very conscious that it’s not going to be an easy fix, but my question is, is it fixable to the point where it won’t stand out as a replacement? Is this something that can be re-moulded?

I’ve emailed Haines, but I’m not sure they’ll be able to help with a 23 year old boat.

I’m unsure how the panel came off but can only assume screw’s worked their way loose.

Appreciate your advice.

 

[PCUK]

It's an easy fix. I can make you one but it will obviously look new compared to the surrounding area unless you "age" it like unscrupulous antiques dealers do!
You'll need the RAL number for the gel coat colour to get a perfect match.

 

[blackmagicthe1st]

It's an easy fix. I can make you one but it will obviously look new compared to the surrounding area unless you "age" it like unscrupulous antiques dealers do!
You'll need the RAL number for the gel coat colour to get a perfect match.

Would you need a comparable panel to make a mould?

Relieved to hear it can be done.

 

[DavidJ]

Just a thought. My Sealine had vinyl covered ply on the sides. An easier DIY job
I can’t quite picture your position so may be quite unsuitable.

 

[petem]

Hi folks,

I’m really hoping someone can help here.

Unfortunately with the recent windy weather I’ve lost an access panel for our radar arch. I’m very conscious that it’s not going to be an easy fix, but my question is, is it fixable to the point where it won’t stand out as a replacement? Is this something that can be re-moulded?

I’ve emailed Haines, but I’m not sure they’ll be able to help with a 23 year old boat.

I’m unsure how the panel came off but can only assume screw’s worked their way loose.

Appreciate your advice.

Where are you based?

 

[Boathook]

Could you make something out of ply and paint ? Take the other one to a paint mixing place and if they have a scanner thing they should be able to match as 25 year old grp does fade.

 

[PCUK]

Would you need a comparable panel to make a mould?

Relieved to hear it can be done.

I make items like this using ply encapsulated on all sides and edges with lightweight mat and resin. Then epoxy coat and spray to match surrounding area. Can also make an all GRP panel just using a template but that is a lot more expensive due to the time needed for gel matching unless you are happy to have it sprayed as per the ply alternative.
If the RAL number is not available I can get the local auto supplies to colour match the gel coat (as Boathook mentioned).
I'm near J27 M5 so if that's not convenient there must others near you who can just as easily do the job for you.

 

[Thalassa76]

Id make a panel out of HDPE

 

[PaulRainbow]

Somewhere like East Coast Fibreglass can match the gelcoat if you send them something.

 

[blackmagicthe1st]

Thanks for the replies guys,
I’m in Northern Ireland unfortunately so not handy to any of you by the looks of it.
Have made a few phone calls today and fingers crossed I can find someone to reproduce the panel.
Out of curiosity, what sort of timeframe would it be to make something like this? A few weeks?

Many thanks

 

[PCUK]

A few hours of actual work, but overall depends on how busy the shop is.
If you become desperate I can make one and post it to you.

 

[blackmagicthe1st]

A few hours of actual work, but overall depends on how busy the shop is.
If you become desperate I can make one and post it to you.

Thanks, I might take you up on that offer in a few weeks. See how I get on here first.

 

[PCUK]

My mate who is a builder suggested using plastic fascia board if the hatch is less than the width of a sheet. It is UV resistant and certainly strong enough. I didn't think of this although I have used pieces of this for other boat projects. Look in your local builders merchant. This could solve your problem for a few quid!